Summaries of health policy coverage from major news organizations

Panel Approves Bill To Outlaw Minors’ Use of Tanning Beds

The California Senate Committee on Business and Professions has passed a bill (SB 746), by Sen. Ted Lieu (D-Torrance), that would ban individuals younger than age 18 from using tanning beds and similar devices. Lieu said federal government and health industry data show that indoor tanning is a leading cause of cancer deathsÂ among people ages 18 to 25. However, the Indoor Tanning Association on its website states that there are no "well-designed studies" that support the link between melanoma, a malignant skin cancer, and exposure to ultraviolet rays from tanning beds. The Committee on Appropriations must approve the legislation before it moves to the full Senate.